Chongan Temple (崇安寺), also known as Xijin Park, is one of the oldest temples in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, boasting a history of over 1600 years. It stands shoulder to shoulder with renowned temples and cultural sites such as the City God Temple in Shanghai, Xuanmiao Temple in Suzhou, and Confucius Temple in Nanjing. Originally a place of serene Buddhist worship, it has transformed into a bustling commercial hub and has become synonymous with the heart of Wuxi city.
Chongan Temple Scenic Area is situated at the core of Wuxi’s old city, surrounded by a vibrant commercial district. The scenic area consists of two main parts: Gong Garden and Chongan Temple Pedestrian Street. Although the area is named after Chongan Temple, the temple itself no longer exists.
Gong Garden, established in 1905, holds the distinction of being one of China’s earliest parks that were open to the public for free. Within the garden, you can find ponds, academies, thatched cottages, peculiar rocks, springs, cherry blossoms, and various species of birds, earning it the title of “China’s First Park.”
Chongan Temple Pedestrian Street is divided into several sections, each offering its unique attractions. There is the Antique and Jewelry Zone, Royal Pavilion Snack Zone, Specialty Commercial Area, Folklore Exhibition Area, Sports and Cultural Activities Area, Brand Fashion Zone, and Leisure and Entertainment Zone. Among these, the street is most famous for its diverse range of snacks. Visitors can savor savory treats like fragrant tofu pudding, sweet magnolia cakes, duck blood and vermicelli soup, soy sauce spare ribs, and many more.
While the temple that once graced this location has disappeared, Chongan Temple Scenic Area and its surrounding districts now offer a delightful blend of history, culture, and modernity. It has evolved from a spiritual retreat into a vibrant and lively destination where visitors can explore the rich heritage of Wuxi while indulging in delicious local flavors and experiencing the lively atmosphere of a bustling Chinese city.
Location and Transportation
Chongan Temple Pedestrian Street is located at the intersection of Zhongshan Road and Renmin Road in the Chongan District of Wuxi City, China. This bustling pedestrian street spans from the eastern end, which starts at Jiefang North Road, to the western end, which concludes at Zhongshan Road. To the south, it faces Renmin Road, while to the north, it is adjacent to Xueqian Street. To get there, you can choose the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 10, 15, 75, 311, 722, or 761 and get off at Chongan Temple Stop (崇安寺站).
Metro: The closest metro station to Chongan Temple is Sanyang Square (三阳广场) on line Line 1 and line 2. After get out of the station from Exit 11B, you will be standing at the eastern edge of the area.
